Researchers from the University of Warwick have unveiled the world's first ibuprofen patch. Unlike pain relief patches that merely provide a warm sensation to help ease pain, the ibuprofen patch delivers the drug through the skin, right where it is needed.
Working with a company called Medherant, the researchers developed a way to introduce the drug into an adhesive polymer matrix. When applied to the skin, the polymer releases the drug in consistent doses for 12 straight hours.
"Our technology now means that we can for the first time produce patches that contain effective doses of active ingredients such as ibuprofen for which no patches currently exist," research chemist David Haddleton, professor at the University of Warwick, said in a news release. "Also, we can improve the drug loading and stickiness of patches containing other active ingredients to improve patient comfort and outcome."
The ibuprofen patch can stay tacky even when loaded with the drug up to 30 percent of its weight, and it can stick long after the drug has been completely released. Plus, it is easy to remove and does not leave a sticky residue, the authors said. Additionally, the polymer can deliver five to 10 times the amount of painkiller drugs that other patches provide.
The patch's polymer technology was created by adhesive company Bostik exclusively for Medherant. This transdermal drug delivery technology can be used to create over-the-counter pain relief treatment for common conditions like chronic back pan and arthritis, eliminating the need to take drugs orally.
"Our success in developing this breakthrough patch design isn't limited to ibuprofen; we have also had great results testing the patch with methyl salicylate," Haddleton said. "We believe that many other over the counter and prescription drugs can exploit our technology and we are seeking opportunities to test a much wider range of drugs and treatments within our patch."
